A1c is one of the most effects tests at measuring blood sugar levels over an extended period of time. The A1C test is used to track the amount of sugar in the blood over the past 3 months. The American Diabetes Association suggests at least two to three A1C tests a year for the best chances of diabetes management. A healthy and normal blood sugar level is a A1C of 5.7% or lower. Anything up to 6.4% usually signifies pre-diabetes and it is important for the individual to employ healthier nutrition in order to reduce the A1C levels in their body. Anything over 6.5% is officially labeled as type 2 diabetes and it can be reversed by significantly lowering the amount of blood sugar in the body.

By making sure that you are taking the right steps towards lowering your A1C, you can avoid further complications and possibly reduce the effects of your diabetes. This guide shows six handy ways to lower your A1C. Read on for more information.

6 Ways to Lower Your A1C Level

While everyone’s diabetes treatment plan will be personalized and individuals will have different A1C goals, the overall rule is to keep A1c levels below 6%. This can vastly improve health and prevent other debilitating conditions that may arise due to chronically high blood sugar levels. While lowering your A1C levels takes work, it is definitely possible. Here are the top six ways:

• Maintain a proper diet because with diabetes nutrition is key. You should prepare balanced meals that offer appropriate portions of lean protein, carbohydrates, fruits, and starches. Plate method calls for 1/2 of the plate to be vegetables, 1/4 to be proteins, and 1/4 to be carbohydrates. Get rid of added sugars like sodas and candy as they cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Fruit juices also contain a large amount of sugar so its best to eat your fruit instead of drink them. Leafy vegetables can be eaten in unlimited amounts and will help you feel full longer.
• Continue to check your blood sugar. Buy a home testing kit to make sure you’re always aware of your blood levels. If you eat something sugary, monitor how high your levels raised and avoid eating that food again if your blood sugar gets too high.
• Get some exercise! The minimum recommendation by doctors is to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, five days a week. While there’s no need to suddenly form a professional workout routine, there are plenty of ways that you could find time to exercise. Try doing something you love, whether it’s running, walking the dog, bike riding, sports, or walking along the beach. This small amount of exercise can greatly increase your health.
• While the common misconception is that diabetes is caused by overeating, there is also a lot of danger to skipping meals as well. Make sure to eat the same amount every day and at the same time. Don’t skip any meals or overcompensate for a previous day. Your levels will fluctuate too much and this can be unhealthy.
• Stick to your doctor’s treatment plan. Diabetes affects people differently and you’ll want to utilize the methods that are best for you. Make sure to stay in communication with your doctor about what the best plan is for your health.
• Beyond making a diet plan, there are specific foods that can actively reduce your blood sugar levels. Make sure to eat plenty of vegetables which can help provide anti-oxidants, minerals, and proteins to balance your glucose levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are useful as well.